What is difference between a CMOS sensor & a CCD sensor?

[Jill H]

Thanks everyone for your comments on my previous thread re the G11.

I have just been looking at the Canon site and I also see the SX1 IS.

My question is does anyone know the difference between a CMOS sensor (on the SX1 IS)and a CCD sensor (on the G11)?? Which is better?

I am stumped now as to whether to buy the SX1 IS or the G11.
This is a replacement for my PowerShot Pro1 which has had a major problem and cannot be repaired unfortunately.

I have a DSLR - but I want a compact which delivers high performance for those times I don't want to lug my DSLR. My main photography is macro and landscapes.

thanks.

[OsmosisStudios]

The SX1is is actually already outdated: it's been replaced with the SX20is.

Practically speaking, the difference between CMOS and CCD is absolutely nothing.

[Jill H]

Originally Posted by OsmosisStudios

The SX1is is actually already outdated: it's been replaced with the SX20is.

Practically speaking, the difference between CMOS and CCD is absolutely nothing.

Ok thanks. Well that probably answers my question about the comparison between int SX1 the SX20 and the G11.

I am trying to decide which model to buy.

[OsmosisStudios]

If you're looking for dSLR like controls and quality, the G11 is the better option. If you're looking for a do-it-all camera, the SX20is is better.

[kirbinster]

My experience is that CMOS sensors yield much better high ISO capability than "equivalent" CCD sensors.

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by kirbinster

My experience is that CMOS sensors yield much better high ISO capability than "equivalent" CCD sensors.

That's pretty much right.

A CMOS sensor does better at high-iso noise levels because of the way it's constructed, but a CCD sensor will have a better per-pixel sharpness level than a CMOS. Most MF digital systems use large CCDs, some without bayer filters, specifically for this reason. So does Leica in the M9.

[Jill H]

thanks everyone for your input. I have decided to buy a G11.